One of the largest problems homeowners, contractors and industry professionals face is water, moisture and vapor transmission issues. There are thousands of sealers on the market that claim to waterproof, repel water and prevent moisture but which products actually live up to their claims? Water repellents are usually classified as products that repel water, sounds simple enough. But what makes a good water repellent is the formula, type of sealer high percentage of solids.
Products that are excellent water repellents are silane/siloxane based formulas. Silane/Siloxanes are a blend of two different types of sealers: silanes and siloxanes. What makes a silane/siloxane so appealing is the difference in molecular size and the blend of smaller and larger particles. If the sealer is an industrial grade formula water will also bead and you will be able to visually see the formula working before your eyes. When looking for a silane/siloxane look for a high percentage formula. 20% and 40% silane/siloxanes are optimal and the best solutions for concrete water repellency. If you have ever had problems with concrete blocks or cinder blocks a silane/siloxane is the product to use. When sealing bricks or masonry a silane/siloxane is the product to use. When looking for a water repellent a silane/siloxane is the product to use. Some tested products that have been proven effective are: Okon S-40, Siloxa-Tek 8500 and Enviroseal 40
